The word 'asthma' is derived from the Greek meaning ' panting' or 'labored breathing'.
Asthma, as defined by World Health Organization, is a chronic disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person.

Asthma affects people of all ages, but it most often starts in childhood. It's important to treat it when you first notice the symptoms. This will help prevent it from worsening and causing a severe asthma attack. Severe asthma attacks may require emergency care, and they can cause death.